Railroads of the Confederacy - by Robert C Black (Paperback)

About the Book

The only comprehensive history of the South's use of railroads during the Civil War.

Book Synopsis

Originally published by UNC Press in 1952, The Railroads of the Confederacy tells the story of the first use of railroads on a major scale in a major war. Robert Black presents a complex and fascinating tale, with the railroads of the American South playing the part of tragic hero in the Civil War: at first vigorous though immature; then overloaded, driven unmercifully, starved for iron; and eventually worn out -- struggling on to inevitable destruction in the wake of Sherman's army, carrying the Confederacy down with them.

With maps of all the Confederate railroads and contemporary photographs and facsimiles of such documents as railroad tickets, timetables, and soldiers' passes, the book will captivate railroad enthusiasts as well as readers interested in the Civil War.

Review Quotes

ÝExplores the¨ subject with commendable thoroughness.

"American Historical Review"

A valuable addition to the Civil War shelf. Thorough in its research, it scrutinizes a vital phase of the rebellion.

"Chicago Tribune"

"A valuable addition to the Civil War shelf. Thorough in its research, it scrutinizes a vital phase of the rebellion.

"Chicago Tribune""

[Explores the] subject with commendable thoroughness.

"American Historical Review"

Black has provided the historian with a valuable reference on an important phase of the Confederacy.

"Mississippi Valley Historical Review"

Eminently worthy of study by those interested in either railroads or the Civil War.

"New York Times"

About the Author

Robert C. Black III lives in Denver, Colorado. His books include The Younger John Winthrop.